By Lincoln G. Peters
MONROVIA, Liberia, August 10, 2026 — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has ordered Justice Minister and Attorney General Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh to immediately investigate allegations involving Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA) Officer-in-Charge Fitzgerald T. M. Biago and submit a detailed report within 48 hours.
The presidential directive follows Biago’s request to temporarily recuse himself from his duties at the LDEA amid allegations that he received a Toyota pickup from an individual allegedly associated with a drug-trafficking organization.
Biago has categorically denied the allegation, saying his decision to step aside is intended to preserve the integrity of the investigation and public confidence in the LDEA.
In a statement issued Saturday, August 8, the Executive Mansion said President Boakai acknowledged a communication from the Justice Minister concerning Biago’s recusal and subsequently ordered an investigation.
“Following a review of the communication, the President has directed the Minister of Justice to immediately launch a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the allegations and all related circumstances surrounding the matter,” the Executive Mansion said.
The statement said Tweh has been instructed to submit a detailed report to the President within 48 hours.
According to the Executive Mansion, President Boakai will review the findings upon receipt of the report and determine what action should be taken.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to combating illicit drugs, organized crime and corruption, stressing that the investigation must be thorough, objective and based on the facts.
He also maintained that no individual or institution is above the law.
Biago Requests Recusal
Earlier Saturday, Biago wrote Justice Minister Tweh requesting authorization to temporarily recuse himself as Officer-in-Charge of the LDEA pending an investigation into the allegation.
“I respectfully request authorization to temporarily recuse myself from the functions of Officer-in-Charge of the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA), pending investigation into an allegation that I received a Toyota pickup vehicle from an individual allegedly associated with a drug-trafficking organization,” Biago wrote.
He denied receiving any improper benefit from individuals connected to drug trafficking.
“I categorically deny the allegation,” Biago stated, adding that he had “neither solicited nor knowingly accepted any gift, benefit, or inducement from a drug trafficker or anyone acting on behalf of a drug-trafficking organization.”
Despite his denial, Biago said the seriousness of the allegation warranted his temporary withdrawal from his official duties to allow an independent investigation.
According to him, stepping aside would help protect the integrity of the LDEA, preserve the independence of the investigation and maintain public confidence in the country’s anti-drug campaign.
“This request is not an admission of wrongdoing, but an act of institutional responsibility intended to avoid any actual or perceived conflict of interest,” he said.
Biago pledged to cooperate fully with investigators and provide relevant information or documentation requested during the probe. He also asked that an acting official be designated to lead the agency during his recusal and called for a timely, fair and transparent investigation.
The development comes amid an ongoing national investigation into major cocaine seizures that has already resulted in arrests, dismissals and suspensions of several government and security officials.
President Boakai has repeatedly pledged that authorities will pursue individuals implicated in narcotics trafficking regardless of their positions or political connections.
